Frequently, children who are the victims of abuse have warning signs ahead of time. Many will have a minor injury that is a warning that something worse may happen.
Paying attention to these injuries in young children who aren’t crawling or able to cause the injury to themselves can be key to identifying children who may be at risk for more significant injuries. These injuries are generally minor but unexplained.
In children, some patterns of bruising and injury if caught early will help prevent the children from being injured more severely. Two validated clinical rules that help screen for potential child abuse and are commonly used are: FACESp and TEN-4
By law, everyone in Texas is a mandated reporter. Professionals may not delegate the duty to report to anyone else. The mandatory reporting requirement applies without exception to an individual whose personal communications may otherwise be privileged, including attorneys, clergy, medical professionals, social workers, and mental health professionals.
(Call 911 if the person is in immediate danger)
